Letter to Welsh Ministers on proposed HFSS placement and promotions

In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the obesity epidemic in the UK. In response, the Welsh government has proposed new rules regarding the placement and promotion of high fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) foods in stores. However, the British Independent Retailers Association, Bira, has expressed concern about the impact these proposals could have on smaller retailers.

Bira believes it is right for the government to tackle the issue of obesity. However it is questionable wether the proposed approach is the right one. Bira argues that the new rules will disproportionately impact smaller retailers, who will be burdened with unnecessary extra costs to change their shop layouts to comply with the rules.

Bira's CEO, Andrew Goodacre commented, "It is right for the Welsh government to tackle the problem of obesity. However, BIRA does not believe this is the right approach. The proposed rules will impact the smaller retailers and burden them with unnecessary extra costs to change the shop layout to accommodate the rules. These are costs that are unaffordable in the current economic climate. We will be working with other associations to urge the Welsh government to revise the proposals."

These extra costs come at a time when many small businesses are already struggling to stay afloat due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many small retailers, the proposed changes would be unaffordable and could ultimately lead to store closures and job losses.

Bira is not alone in its concerns. Other trade associations have also expressed worry over the proposed rules, including the Association of Convenience Stores and the National Federation of Retail Newsagents. These organizations are urging the Welsh government to revise the proposals to take into account the impact on small businesses.

It is important to note that the Welsh government has stated that it is committed to working with retailers to ensure a smooth transition to the new rules. However, there is still concern among small business owners that the costs and burden of compliance will be too high.

The issue of obesity is a serious one, and it is clear that action needs to be taken to address it. However, it is important to ensure that any new regulations do not unfairly target smaller retailers. The government must find a balance between protecting public health and supporting small businesses.

In conclusion, the proposed rules regarding the placement and promotion of HFSS foods in stores in Wales have raised concerns among small business owners. While it is important to tackle the issue of obesity, it is equally important to ensure that any new regulations do not unfairly impact smaller retailers. BIRA and other trade associations are urging the Welsh government to revise the proposals to take into account the impact on small businesses, and it is hoped that a solution can be found that balances public health concerns with support for small retailers.

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